Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class Ship Set for European Launch

Barcelona, Spain – Royal Caribbean International announced plans to introduce its third Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas, into European waters starting in August 2026. This will mark the first time the cruise line is deploying Icon Class vessels to Europe, highlighting its commitment to meeting growing demand among European travelers.

Legend of the Seas will embark on its inaugural sailing with a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise, initially departing from Barcelona. The ship will visit popular ports in France, Italy, and Spain, offering guests a rich cultural experience combined with the luxuries of modern cruising.

“Our guests across Europe have been asking for an Icon Class ship to be based here, and this was the right time to bring it,” said Kara Wallace, Chief Marketing Officer for Royal Caribbean. The ship has a gross tonnage of approximately 250,800 and can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers.

Following its European launch, Legend of the Seas will transition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a series of Caribbean cruises beginning in November 2026. Shortly thereafter, the ship will engage in a variety of itineraries through April 2027, emphasizing Royal Caribbean’s strategy to cater to a broader audience with short, thrilling trips to tropical destinations.

Booking for the highly anticipated sailing began early this week, with the first sailing scheduled for August 2, 2026. Current fares for this inaugural voyage start at around $918.99 per person, inclusive of taxes and port charges. As per trends with new cruise ships, the prices are expected to fluctuate, indicating an early booking might present the best value.

Royal Caribbean is experiencing a surge in demand, particularly for short cruises. According to the company, its distinct offerings on ships like Utopia of the Seas and Icon of the Seas continue to perform above expectations, with a reported 16% year-over-year growth in first-time cruisers. This demand is mirrored in the economic contributions of the cruise industry, estimated at nearly $65 billion to the U.S. economy in 2023.

In addition to the exciting new itineraries and ship features, Royal Caribbean continues its commitment to sustainability and modernization, aiming to set new benchmarks within the cruise industry. The cruise line has already made significant investments to enhance passenger experiences onboard, and the Legend of the Seas promises to build upon this legacy, setting a high bar for future vessels.

With a backdrop of captivating Mediterranean landscapes and luxurious onboard amenities, Royal Caribbean is well-positioned to attract both seasoned cruisers and new travelers seeking adventure at sea.